Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and MRI Insights
Herniated disc I would like to consult Dr. Lai regarding my condition. I have cervical spine compression at levels C4, C5, and C6 affecting the spinal cord, and a ruptured intervertebral disc at the lumbar spine L5-S1. I underwent an anterior cervical discectomy on February 22. P...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is severe preoperative compression of the cervical spinal cord that has already caused damage, some patients may experience abnormal sensations postoperatively and may require medication in conjunction with rehabilitation therapy. 2. It is also occasionally obs...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and MRI Insights
Post-Operative Consultation for L5-S1 Fusion Surgery Complications
Postoperative Consultation for L5-S1 Surgery Hello Dr. Lai, I previously underwent an anterior spinal fusion surgery due to grade II spondylolisthesis at the L5-S1 level. (Before the surgery, I experienced persistent pain on the left side, while the right side had no symptoms.)...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Indeed, some individuals may experience symptoms on the opposite side after a dislocation is reduced, which could be due to temporary discomfort in the new environment following the renovation of an old house. 2. It would be advisable to discuss this further with the or...[Read More] Post-Operative Consultation for L5-S1 Fusion Surgery Complications
Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking Solutions
Postoperative care after lumbar disc herniation surgery? Dear Doctor, I underwent two surgeries in 2020 for L3-4-5 lumbar spine stabilization with interbody fusion devices. My recovery was good, and three months post-surgery, I returned to delivering food. After nearly a year, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If the damage is severe before surgery, the postoperative recovery may not be ideal. Your condition is more complex. We need to review MRI and other imaging studies to provide you with a clearer assessment and recommendations. You can bring a series of MRIs for a consultat...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking Solutions
Post-Spinal Fusion Surgery: Safe Exercise and Activity Guidelines
Postoperative Exercise After Spinal Fusion Surgery Doctor, I had spinal fusion surgery a year ago, and my condition is quite good. However, I heard from my neighbor that she had her surgery over three years ago and recently went back to the hospital because the screws became loos...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Basically, one year after spinal fusion surgery, the fusion should be complete. 2. If you had surgery over three years ago and recently returned to the hospital due to loose screws, this is uncommon but possible. If the patient has poor bone quality, even osteoporosis, ...[Read More] Post-Spinal Fusion Surgery: Safe Exercise and Activity Guidelines
Is There a Link Between Herniated Discs and Muscle Twitching?
Is there a relationship between herniated discs and muscle twitching issues? Hello, Director Lai. I have been experiencing abnormal twitching in the muscles of my calves since mid-year, which led me to seek medical attention. I underwent nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electro...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The relationship should not be significant. 2. The calf muscles are still twitching intermittently, which may indicate other issues, such as electrolyte imbalance, blood circulation, muscle strain, posture, or temperature. Soaking your feet in warm water can help. Discu...[Read More] Is There a Link Between Herniated Discs and Muscle Twitching?
Understanding Cervical and Lumbar Disc Compression Symptoms
Cervical and lumbar spine compression? About 8-9 years ago, I underwent an MRI examination which revealed herniated discs at the C3-4-5-6 levels causing compression. At that time, my main symptoms included numbness and pain in my left arm and fingers, along with occasional tingli...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Herniated discs can occur on both sides, and the symptoms may be intermittent.[Read More] Understanding Cervical and Lumbar Disc Compression Symptoms
Post-Spinal Surgery Concerns: Recovery, Complications, and Future Work
Post-operative issues related to spinal surgery (sequelae, functional roles, uncertain recovery status) Hello Doctor, I suffered a burst fracture of the lumbar spine at L3-L4 at the end of June. Due to the loosening of the screw at L4, I need to return to the hospital for surgery...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Lifting heavy objects, standing for long periods, and squatting for extended durations can harm the lumbar spine and increase your risk of recurrence. It is advisable to adjust the nature of your work. 2. You will not become incapacitated. After the fusion of the spine,...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery Concerns: Recovery, Complications, and Future Work
Understanding L5 Spondylolisthesis: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
L5 and sacral vertebrae slippage Hello Dr. Lai, I would like to ask about my condition. I have a fifth lumbar vertebra with spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. Some doctors have said it is grade IV spondylolisthesis, while others have described it as severe. I first discovered t...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Is it possible for this condition to worsen, or can I coexist with it? A: It may worsen. If you feel you can walk and tolerate the symptoms, you can coexist with it (however, it will not be cured) - think of it like continuing to drive an old car. 2. If I do not hav...[Read More] Understanding L5 Spondylolisthesis: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Nerve Pain and Tingling After COVID-19: A Guide
Occasional tingling and pain in the hands and feet? Hello, doctor. Since I tested positive for COVID-19 in June, I have been experiencing occasional soreness in my left eye for about one to two weeks. I went for a consultation, and the doctor said my eyes are fatigued. After exam...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The symptoms in your upper arm/lower leg are likely caused by nerve compression from the cervical/lumbar spine. 2. It is not uncommon for symptoms on the left side to switch to the right side, depending on the location of the nerve compression. It is recommended to cons...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain and Tingling After COVID-19: A Guide
Post-Surgery Weakness in Legs After Spinal Surgery: Key Insights
Postoperative leg weakness after spinal surgery? Hello, Vice Dean Zhang. I have undergone three surgeries for lumbar spine issues at the L4-L5 level. The first surgery involved a Romeo clamp and screws, which became loose and caused nerve pain. The second surgery reinforced the c...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. There should be no issues if there is no pain and no neurological dysfunction. 2. I cannot provide an answer without knowing your case, imaging studies, and physical examination. 3. Yes, it is related to pain. 4. Not entirely.[Read More] Post-Surgery Weakness in Legs After Spinal Surgery: Key Insights
Understanding Thigh Nerve Pain: Causes and Solutions
Thigh nerve pain Hello doctor, for the past two weeks, I have been experiencing soreness, numbness, and pain in my left buttock extending to the outer thigh. Could you help me understand what this might be? Thank you.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected to be sciatica. This symptom is often caused by lumbar spine lesions compressing the nerves. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Thigh Nerve Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Spinal Surgery: Insights on Atypical Recovery and Symptoms
Spinal surgery Hello Doctor: I have ankylosing spondylitis and suffered compression fractures of the T10 and T11 vertebrae due to a car accident in 2017. The fractures were not detected at the time of the accident, and it wasn't until two months later that I experienced numb...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The key factor is not the number of spinal surgeries, but rather the extent of spinal cord injury. Severe spinal cord damage is irreversible. It is possible that nerve compression and injury occur at the moment of injury. The earlier the surgery is performed before irreversible d...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Surgery: Insights on Atypical Recovery and Symptoms
Understanding Lumbar Disc Rupture and Its Impact on Disability Claims
Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation at L3, L4, and L5 - surgery was performed to install a lumbar stabilizer? Hello, doctor. I have a question. I underwent surgery for a herniated disc at the lumbar levels L3, L4, and L5 due to a car accident (it has been a year and a half sinc...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. After your injury and surgery, your recovery has not been ideal. This may be due to the severity of the injury prior to surgery. If you wish to reassess whether there is room for adjustment in your treatment, you can obtain copies of your medical records and MRI/X-ray i...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Rupture and Its Impact on Disability Claims
Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Ongoing Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Postoperative back pain persists for one to two years? Hello, doctor! My mother is 59 years old. Two years ago, she suffered from severe lower back and leg pain, and no pain medication was effective. The doctor diagnosed her with a herniated disc compressing the nerves, and after...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The report you provided indicates: L3-4 and L4-5 lumbar disc bulging, and L5-S1 disc herniation with compression of the dural sac... this suggests the presence of nerve compression. 2. I recommend that you copy the disc and bring the MRI images (not just the text) for t...[Read More] Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Ongoing Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Understanding EMG and Nerve Conduction Study Results for Back Pain
Report Interpretation Hello doctor, the attached image is an electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction study report. I would like to ask you to review it for any issues. Currently, my symptoms include persistent pain in the lower back, which sometimes radiates to the soles of m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your symptom description, it is suspected that lumbar spine lesions are causing sciatica. 2. Your nerve conduction study report suggests a possible peripheral neuropathy in both lower limbs, which does not appear to be consistent with lumbar nerve pathology. 3....[Read More] Understanding EMG and Nerve Conduction Study Results for Back Pain
Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Numbness and Mobility Issues
Postoperative foot numbness and inability to walk after minimally invasive spinal surgery? Hello doctor, my family member underwent minimally invasive surgery on the lumbar spine from the third to the fifth vertebrae over a month ago, and they are experiencing complete paralysis ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: The situation of your family sounds unfortunate. The original surgeon will have the best understanding of the preoperative and intraoperative conditions. However, it is essential to patiently cooperate with rehabilitation. Wishing for a speedy recovery from Changhua Hospit...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Numbness and Mobility Issues
Is Golf Safe for Patients with Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis Doctor, I would like to ask if it is suitable for me to play golf with my lumbar vertebrae 3, 4, and 5 having a slippage. Are there other exercises that are more appropriate for someone with lumbar spine issues? Thank you.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Lumbar spondylolisthesis may not necessarily present with symptoms. If you play golf and do not experience any lower back pain during the activity, it may not be necessary to refrain from it. Suitable exercises for the lumbar spine include stretching, pull-ups, swimming, a...[Read More] Is Golf Safe for Patients with Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
Best Pillows for Herniated Discs: Finding Comfort and Support
What type of pillow is recommended for a herniated disc? Hello Director Lai, I have been dealing with cervical disc herniation for 18 years. Back then, I experienced constant pain while awake, but after a year of rehabilitation, the pain disappeared. I have been very mindful of m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: According to evidence-based medicine, when selecting a pillow, the key points are for back sleeping or side sleeping: 1. The area between the head, neck, and shoulders should have proper support (there should be no gaps, and the neck should not be suspended). 2. The cervic...[Read More] Best Pillows for Herniated Discs: Finding Comfort and Support
Understanding Disc Herniation: When to Seek MRI for Back Pain Relief
Herniated disc Hello doctor, I have been experiencing persistent lower back pain, which is so severe that it even hurts to walk. My shoulders and neck are also very tense, and when I feel discomfort in my neck, it can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Additionally, I have...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: You may have nerve compression in your cervical spine and also have lesions in your lumbar spine. If you have already tried conservative treatment along with injection therapy without improvement, it is recommended to consider scheduling an MRI for further evaluation. Best...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: When to Seek MRI for Back Pain Relief
Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Stiffness, Weakness, and Tightness
Post-spinal surgery, experiencing stiffness and weakness in the legs, along with muscle tightness? Hello Dr. Lai! I have rheumatoid arthritis and underwent L4-L5 spinal surgery (with Romeo clamps and health insurance screws) in June 2022 due to pain from slippage. I had another s...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: What you mentioned is all possible, and the treatment options can be considered. However, the key recommendation is to have your doctor arrange for a follow-up MRI for a detailed evaluation, and then plan the subsequent treatment strategy. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, D...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Stiffness, Weakness, and Tightness